US7311678B2 - Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus - Google Patents

Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus Download PDF

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US7311678B2
US7311678B2 US10/617,037 US61703703A US7311678B2 US 7311678 B2 US7311678 B2 US 7311678B2 US 61703703 A US61703703 A US 61703703A US 7311678 B2 US7311678 B2 US 7311678B2
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pulse
pressure
longitudinal axis
enclosure
acoustical
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US20040010211A1 (en
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Avner Spector
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Medispec Ltd
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Medispec Ltd
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Priority claimed from US09/814,359 external-priority patent/US6755796B2/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/22—Implements for squeezing-off ulcers or the like on the inside of inner organs of the body; Implements for scraping-out cavities of body organs, e.g. bones; Calculus removers; Calculus smashing apparatus; Apparatus for removing obstructions in blood vessels, not otherwise provided for
    • A61B17/22004—Implements for squeezing-off ulcers or the like on the inside of inner organs of the body; Implements for scraping-out cavities of body organs, e.g. bones; Calculus removers; Calculus smashing apparatus; Apparatus for removing obstructions in blood vessels, not otherwise provided for using mechanical vibrations, e.g. ultrasonic shock waves
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A61N2007/0056—Beam shaping elements
    • A61N2007/006—Lenses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A61N2007/0056—Beam shaping elements
    • A61N2007/0069—Reflectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N7/00—Ultrasound therapy
    • A61N7/02—Localised ultrasound hyperthermia
    • A61N2007/027—Localised ultrasound hyperthermia with multiple foci created simultaneously

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to apparatus for pressure-pulse therapy.
  • the present invention relates in particular to the generation of compound pressure pulses especially for orthopedic therapy.
  • Pressure-pulse therapy also known as shock-wave therapy
  • pressure-pulse therapy has many uses It is used in lithotripsy as a non-invasive technique for pulverizing kidney stones and calculi in the bladder and urethra. It is also used for dissolving lipids in cells close to the skin and in the pelvic region. In particular, it has many uses in orthopedic medicine, for example, as a therapeutic means for any of the following:
  • a flexible diaphragm caps the reflector, and the region contained by the reflector and the diaphragm is filled with a liquid medium, for pulse propagation.
  • a pressure-pulse source is located at the first focal point, within the medium.
  • This configuration provides that a portion of a pulse originating from the source, at the first focal point, will impinge on the reflector, be reflected by it, and be brought into focus at the second focal point.
  • the reflector is movable and can be positioned so that the second focal point coincides with a concretion within the body that is to be pulverized. Sonic aiming means are used to detect the concretion and to direct the positioning of the reflector.
  • pressure-pulse therapy is accompanied by an imaging means, such as the sonic aiming means of U.S. Pat. No. 4,620,545.
  • the region for treatment is generally small, between 0.3 and 1.5 cm, and it is desirous to image the location in order for the therapy to be applied effectively.
  • X-ray imaging may be used; however, with x-rays, the patient and the physician are exposed to radiation doses with each treatment.
  • PCT patent publication PCT WO 93/14720 “Method and Apparatus Particularly Useful for Treating Osteoporosis,” to Spector, whose disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, offers an alternative to the need for an imaging means. It has a generally parabolic reflector, which has a single focal point within the reflector's dome. A flexible diaphragm caps the reflector and the region contained by the reflector and the diaphragm is filled with a liquid medium, as in the previous patent. A pressure-pulse source is located at the focal point, within the liquid. This configuration provides that a portion of a pulse originating from the source, at the focal point, will impinge on the reflector, and be reflected by it, collimated. In other words, the reflected pulse will be a non-focusing wave, so focusing means are not essential. Pressure pulse therapy can thus be image free.
  • the present invention seeks to provide a therapeutic pressure pulse formed as a compound pressure pulse of at least two subordinate pulses.
  • dome-shaped reflector having:
  • said center section is substantially parabolic and has a single focal point.
  • said at least one ring section is substantially ellipsoid and has proximal and distal focal points with respect to said reflector, wherein said focal point of said center section and said proximal focal point of said at least one ring section substantially coincide.
  • said at least one ring section includes a plurality of substantially ellipsoid ring sections, each having proximal and distal focal points with respect to said reflector, wherein said proximal focal points of said plurality of ring sections substantially coincide, wherein said distal focal points of said plurality of ring sections are adjacent to each other, and wherein said focal point of said center section and said proximal focal points of said plurality of ring sections substantially coincide.
  • said center section and said at least one ring section are substantially ellipsoid, each having proximal and distal focal points with respect to said reflector, wherein said proximal focal point of said center section and said proximal focal point of said at least one ring section substantially coincide.
  • said center section is generally parabolic and has a single focal zone.
  • said at least one ring section is generally ellipsoid, and has proximal and distal focal zones with respect to said reflector, wherein said focal zone of said center section and said proximal focal zone of said at least one ring section generally coincide.
  • said at least one ring section includes a plurality of generally ellipsoid ring sections, each having proximal and distal focal zones with respect to said reflector, wherein said proximal focal zones of said plurality of ring sections generally coincide, wherein said distal focal zones of said plurality of ring sections are generally adjacent to each other, and wherein said focal zone of said center section and said proximal focal zones of said plurality of ring sections generally coincide.
  • said center section and said at least one ring section are generally ellipsoid, each having proximal and distal focal zones with respect to said reflector, wherein said proximal focal zone of said center section and said proximal focal zone of said at least one ring section generally coincide.
  • said predetermined curvatures and reflective characteristics are determined by numerical analysis.
  • said predetermined curvatures and reflective characteristics include a predetermined zone at which both said first subordinate pressure pulse and said at least one additional subordinate pressure pulse are reflected.
  • said predetermined curvatures and reflective characteristics include:
  • said predetermined curvatures and reflective characteristics include:
  • said predetermined first curvature is selected from a group which consists of generally parabolic, generally ellipsoid, substantially ellipsoid, and a curvature which is determined by numerical analysis to yield said predetermined first reflective characteristics.
  • said predetermined second curvature is selected from a group which consists of generally parabolic, substantially parabolic, generally ellipsoid, substantially ellipsoid, and a curvature which is determined by numerical analysis to yield said predetermined second reflective characteristics.
  • said predetermined curvature and reflective characteristics include a predetermined phase difference between said first subordinate pressure pulse and said at least one additional subordinate pressure pulse.
  • said phase difference is between 0.5 and 1 microsecond.
  • said at least one ring section having predetermined second curvature and reflective characteristics associated therewith, includes a plurality of ring sections, each having predetermined curvature and reflective characteristics associated therewith, formed to reflect a primary pressure pulse propagating thereon, from said pressure-pulse source, so as to form a plurality of additional subordinate pressure pulses of the compound pulse, wherein said plurality of additional subordinate pressure pulses of the compound pulse include predetermined phase differences between them.
  • a dome-shaped reflector having:
  • pressure-pulse therapy apparatus which includes:
  • said first and second curvatures and reflective characteristics are associated with a point P, located on said x-axis, wherein said pressure-pulse source is located at said point P.
  • said first and second curvatures and reflective characteristics are associated with a point P, located on said x-axis, wherein said pressure-pulse source is located at a point P′′ on said x-axis.
  • said point P is more proximal to said reflector than said point P′′.
  • said pressure-pulse source is a spark discharge source.
  • said pressure-pulse source is an electromagnetic pressure-pulse source.
  • said apparatus is operable to generate, from the primary pressure pulse, subordinate pressure pulses in the range between 5 and 600 bars.
  • said apparatus is arranged for traveling along at least one axis, for positioning against a tissue surface of a body.
  • said apparatus is arranged for traveling along a plurality of axes, for positioning against a tissue surface of a body.
  • said apparatus is arranged for tilting along at least one angular direction, for positioning against a tissue surface of a body.
  • said apparatus is arranged for tilting along a plurality of angular directions, for positioning against a tissue surface of a body.
  • said apparatus includes a support fixture for a portion of a body to be treated.
  • pressure-pulse therapy apparatus which includes:
  • a pressure-pulse therapy method which includes:
  • reflecting a first portion of the propagation includes reflecting the propagation in a substantially collimated manner.
  • reflecting a first portion of the propagation includes reflecting the propagation in a generally collimated manner.
  • reflecting a first portion of the propagation includes reflecting the propagation as a substantially focusing propagation.
  • reflecting a first portion of the propagation includes reflecting the propagation as a generally focusing propagation.
  • reflecting at least one additional portion of the propagation includes reflecting the propagation as a substantially focusing propagation.
  • reflecting at least one additional portion of the propagation includes reflecting the propagation as a generally focusing propagation.
  • said method includes reflecting the first portion of the primary pressure pulse propagation and reflecting at least one additional portion of the primary pressure pulse propagation with a phase difference between them.
  • employing a reflector includes employing a reflector formed of a plurality of sections that include:
  • said method includes reflecting the plurality of additional portions of the primary pressure pulse propagation with phase differences between them.
  • said method includes varying a distance between the reflector and a pressure-pulse source.
  • said method includes therapeutically applying the compound pressure pulse to a tissue of a body.
  • the tissue is human tissue.
  • a disk-like acoustic lens having:
  • said predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics are determined by numerical analysis.
  • said predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics include a predetermined zone at which both said first subordinate pressure pulse and said at least one additional subordinate pressure pulse are directed.
  • said predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics include:
  • said predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics include:
  • said predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics include a predetermined phase difference between said first subordinate pressure pulse and said at least one additional subordinate pressure pulse.
  • said phase difference is between 0.5 and 1 microsecond.
  • said at least one ring section having predetermined second curvature and focusing characteristics associated therewith, includes a plurality of ring sections, each having predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics associated therewith, formed to reflect a primary pressure pulse propagating thereon, so as to form a plurality of additional subordinate pressure pulses of said compound pressure pulse.
  • said plurality of additional subordinate pressure pulses of said compound pressure pulse include predetermined phase differences between them.
  • said lens includes a cutout section that allows a portion of the primary pressure pulse to pass through it, undisturbed.
  • said cutout section is said center section.
  • a disk-like acoustic lens having:
  • pressure-pulse therapy apparatus which includes:
  • pressure-pulse therapy apparatus which includes:
  • a pressure-pulse therapy method which includes:
  • focusing a first portion of the propagation includes substantially focusing the propagation.
  • focusing a first portion of the propagation includes generally focusing the propagation.
  • focusing at least one additional portion of the propagation includes substantially focusing the propagation.
  • focusing at least one additional portion of the propagation includes, generally focusing the propagation.
  • employing a lens formed of at least two sections includes employing a lens formed of a plurality of sections, having predetermined curvatures and focusing characteristics associated therewith, wherein focusing at least one additional portion of the primary pressure pulse propagation includes focusing a plurality of additional portions of the primary pressure pulse propagation by said plurality of sections, thus forming a plurality of additional subordinate pressure pulses.
  • said plurality of additional subordinate pressure pulses include predetermined phase differences between them.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2A is a schematic representation of a parabola
  • FIG. 2B is a schematic representation of ellipses
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of the specific geometry of a reflector formed of three substantially concentric sections, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a compound pressure pulse formed of subordinate pulses, as a function of time, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus, in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus, in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 9A-9B together schematically represent pressure-pulse therapy apparatus, in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a therapeutic treatment applied to a foot, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 11A-11D are pictorial representations of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus applying therapeutic treatment, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 10 , in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pressure-pulse apparatus 10 includes a dome-shaped reflector 12 , defining an x-axis passing through its center, and a point of origin O at its center (vertex).
  • Reflector 12 is formed of three substantially concentric sections having different curvatures: a substantially parabolic center section 14 , a substantially ellipsoid ring section 16 , and a second substantially ellipsoid ring section 18 .
  • FIGS. 2A and 2B for a basic review of the important features of a parabola and an ellipse, as they relate to the present invention.
  • the following discussion is based on “Standard Mathematical Tables,” Editor-in-Chief of Mathematics S. M. Selby, The Chemical Rubber Co. (CRC), Eighteenth Edition, pp. 355-356.
  • the focal point, F, of parabola L is at (P,0).
  • FIG. 2B schematically illustrates the x-y coordinate system with point of origin O, and two ellipses, M and N.
  • an ellipse has two vertices, V1 and V2, major and minor axes, a and b, and a center C.
  • FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the special geometry of reflector 12 of FIG. 1 .
  • a center section, between point O and points A-A is a section of parabola L, with vertex, V, at point O and a curvature described by expression 1 above.
  • the distal focal points F 1 2 and F 2 2 of the two ellipsoid ring sections are different from each other, F 1 2 ⁇ F 2 2, 15. and, h 1 +( a 1 2 ⁇ b 1 2 ) 1/2 ⁇ h 2 +( a 2 2 ⁇ b 2 2 ) 1/2 , 16. and similarly, for additional ellipsoid ring sections, when they are used.
  • the y values and preferably also the first derivatives dy/dx of the center, parabolic section and of the first ellipsoid ring section are substantially the same, and preferably, along ring B-B, the y values and preferably also the first derivatives dy/dx of the first and the second ellipsoid ring sections are substantially the same, so as to avoid points of discontinuities which may cause pressure losses.
  • this condition is not required for the present invention.
  • the curvature of section 14 is substantially described by expression 1
  • the curvature of section 16 is substantially described by expression 7
  • the curvature of section 18 is substantially described by expression 10 .
  • the values of P, h 1 , a 1 , b 1 , h 2 , a 2 , and b 2 are selected in a manner that meets the conditions specified by expressions 13-16.
  • focal point F of substantially parabolic center section 14 and proximal focal points F 1 1 and F 2 1 of substantially ellipsoid ring sections 16 and 18 coincide at a point P, on the x axis, preferably inside dome-shaped reflector 12 .
  • Distal focal point F 1 2 of section 16 and distal focal point F 2 2 of section 18 are at different distances from reflector 12 , on the x axis, preferably within a region for treatment 26 of body tissue.
  • the parameters of sections 14 , 16 , and 18 namely, P, h 1 , a 1 , b 1 , h 2 , a 2 , and b 2 are selected in a manner that provides for each first derivative along rings A, B, and C, to have a single value, when calculated from the left and when calculated from the right. In this way, pressure losses due to points of discontinuities will be reduced.
  • h 1 a 1
  • substantially ellipsoid ring section 16 is constructed as if its first vertex were at point of origin O.
  • h 2 a 2 .
  • a pressure-pulse source 24 is located at point P.
  • Source 24 and reflector 12 are arranged in a fluid medium 20 , preferably a liquid, such as an aqueous solution, water or oil, in which the pressure pulses propagate.
  • a flexible diaphragm 22 essentially caps dome-shaped reflector 12 and contains fluid medium 20 within. When conducting therapeutic treatment, flexible diaphragm 22 of apparatus 10 is pressed against region for treatment 26 , so that pressure pulses propagate through diaphragm 22 to region for treatment 26 .
  • pressure-pulse source 94 is a substantially point source.
  • pressure-pulse source 24 is a generally point source.
  • Pressure pulse source 24 may be, for example, a spark discharge source described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,942,531 to Hoff, 1976, whose disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.
  • any spark plug source, electromagnetic source, piezoelectric source, or another known source may be used.
  • a power supply unit 28 preferably located outside medium 20 , powers pressure-pulse source 24 , with wires 29 connecting power supply unit 28 to source 24 .
  • FIG. 1 provides for a radially expanding primary pulse 30 , originating from substantially or generally point source 24 , to form a compound of subordinate pulses, as follows:
  • FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the effect of primary pressure pulse 30 on region for treatment 26 , as a function of time.
  • a portion of radially expanding primary pulse 30 is the first to impinge on region for treatment 26 .
  • Subordinate pulses 32 , 34 , and 36 reflected from reflector 12 , will impinge on region for treatment 26 a little later, generally at different times, since the paths are different for each subordinate pulse.
  • Radially expanding portion of primary pressure pulse 30 and collimated first subordinate pulse 32 inherently provide for regional treatment of the tissue.
  • the combined effect of second subordinate pulse 34 and third subordinate pulse 36 each being directed at a different focal point within region for treatment 26 , enhances the regional effect of the treatment.
  • substantially ellipsoid ring section 16 only one substantially ellipsoid ring section, such as substantially ellipsoid ring section 16 is used, and the compound pressure pulse that is formed has only two subordinate pulses.
  • more than two substantially ellipsoid ring sections are used, and the compound pressure pulse that is formed has three or more subordinate pulses.
  • FIG. 5 schematically illustrates pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 100 , in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 100 includes a generally, but not exactly, parabolic center section 114 , having a focal zone P′, generally around point P.
  • Focal zone P′ can be determined as follows: a collimated propagation impinging on generally parabolic center section 114 will be directed as focal zone P′, thus defining focal zone P′.
  • focal zone P′ is within the reflector's dome.
  • pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 100 further includes a generally, but not exactly, ellipsoid ring section 116 , having a proximal focal zone F 1 ′, which generally coincides with P′, and a distal focal zone F 2 ′, preferably within region for treatment 26 .
  • Focal zone F 2 ′ can be determined as follows: a radially expanding propagation, originating from substantially or generally point source 24 at a point in the center of focal zone F 1 ′ and impinging on generally ellipsoid ring section 116 , will be directed at focal zone F 2 ′, thus defining focal zone F 2 ′.
  • focal zone F 1 ′ can be determined as follows: a radially expanding propagation, originating from a substantially or generally point source (not shown) at a point in the center of focal zone F 2 ′ and impinging on generally ellipsoid ring section 116 , will be directed at focal zone F 1 ′, thus defining focal zone F 1 ′.
  • primary pulse 30 impinges on generally parabolic center 114 , it is reflected as a slightly convergent or slightly divergent first subordinate pulse 132 .
  • a portion of primary pulse 30 impinges on generally ellipsoid ring 116 , it is reflected as a poorly focusing second subordinate pulse 134 , generally directed at zone F 2 ′, preferably within region for treatment 26 , rather than at a point such as F 1 2 of FIG. 1 .
  • regional treatment is rendered also by subordinate pulse 134 , reflected from a single, generally ellipsoid ring section.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 200 , in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 200 includes a dome-shaped reflector 212 formed of two substantially concentric sections having different curvatures: a substantially parabolic center section 214 having a focal point F at point P, and a substantially ellipsoid ring section 216 having a proximal focal point F 1 , at point P, and a distal focal point F 2 .
  • Pressure-pulse source 24 is located on the x-axis, at a point P′′, preferably, somewhat closer to reflector 212 than point P.
  • This configuration also provides that a radially expanding primary pulse 30 , originating from pressure-pulse source 24 will impinge on reflector 212 and be reflected by it as a compound pressure pulse of somewhat diffused subordinate pulses: a first subordinate pulse 232 which will be slightly convergent, and a poorly focusing second subordinate pulse 234 , generally directed at a zone F 2 ′′, preferably within region for treatment 26 .
  • This configuration too, provides for a regional treatment of the tissue.
  • point P′′ at which pressure-pulse source 24 is located, is further away from reflector 212 than point P.
  • pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 200 includes a linear extendor 213 for varying a distance between pressure-pulse source 24 and reflector 212 , along, said x-axis, so as to selectably bring point P′′ to coincidence with point P, when desired, to selectably bring point P′′ to the right of point P, when desired, and to selectably bring point P′′ to the left of point P, when desired.
  • reflector 212 is arranged for traveling along the x-axis, with respect to pressure-pulse source 24 , so as to selectably bring point P′′ to coincidence with point P, when desired, to selectably bring point P′′ to the right of point P, when desired, and to selectably bring point P′′ to the left of point P, when desired.
  • traveling along the x-axis includes sliding on a rail or in a channel.
  • travelling along the x-axis includes travelling on a threaded rod.
  • another travelling mechanism may be used.
  • center region 14 is also substantially ellipsoid.
  • functions other than a parabola and an ellipse and different combinations of functions may be used for the curvature of the substantially concentric sections of the reflector.
  • a linear function may be used.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 300 , in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pressure-pulse apparatus 300 includes an electromagnetic source 310 , for example, of a type described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,782,821, to Reitter, incorporated herein by reference.
  • electromagnetic source 310 is disk-like, and is formed of the following layers:
  • Electromagnetic source 310 is thus arranged for generating a collimated pressure pulse 330 .
  • disk-like electromagnetic source 310 is arranged in fluid medium 20 , with an acoustic lens 312 positioned between source 310 and region for treatment 26 .
  • An enclosure 311 and flexible diaphragm 22 contain fluid medium 20 within. When conducting therapeutic treatment, flexible diaphragm 22 is pressed against region for treatment 26 , so that pressure pulses propagate through diaphragm 22 to region for treatment 26 .
  • acoustic lens 312 is disk-like and is formed of a polymer, or another suitable material.
  • Acoustic lens 312 defines an x-axis passing through its center, and a point of origin O at its center.
  • Acoustic lens 312 is formed of at least two, and preferably more than two acoustic-lens sections, such as first, second and third acoustic-lens sections 314 , 316 , and 318 . These may be substantially or generally focusing lens sections.
  • each of acoustic-lens sections 314 , 316 , and 318 determines whether collimated pulse 330 , impinging on it, will be directed at a focal point or a general focal zone, and the location of the focal point or zone.
  • acoustic pulses originating from source 310 , but impinging on different lens sections, will reach the common focal point or zone with phase differences.
  • acoustic-lens sections 314 , 316 , and 318 are designed, preferably by numerical analysis, to have predetermined focal points F 314 , F 316 , and F 318 which generally coincide at a focal zone F′, within region for treatment 26 .
  • acoustic-lens sections 314 , 316 , and 318 are designed, preferably by numerical analysis, as somewhat distorted lens sections, having predetermined general focal zones F 314 , F 316 , and F 318 rather that focal points.
  • focal zones F 314 , F 316 , and F 318 generally coincide at focal zone F′, within region for treatment 26 .
  • focal zones F 314 , F 316 , and F 318 are somewhat displaced from each other, but within region for treatment 26 .
  • acoustic-lens sections 314 , 316 , and 318 are further designed, preferably by numerical analysis, so that pulses directed from them will arrive at focal zone F′ with predetermined phase differences of about 0.5-1 microsecond between them.
  • acoustic lens 312 includes at least one cutout section, for example, cutout section A-A, preferably at its center, to allow a portion of collimated primary pulse 330 to pass undisturbed.
  • at least two acoustic-lens sections of acoustic lens 312 may include at least one cutout section, such as section A-A and at least one additional section such as acoustic lens section 314 .
  • FIG. 7 provides for a collimated primary pulse 330 , originating from disk-like source 310 , to form a compound of subordinate pulses, which impinge on region for treatment 26 with different phases, as follows:
  • acoustic lens 312 has no cutout section, and is formed of two or more acoustic lens sections.
  • FIG. 8 schematically illustrates pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 400 , in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pressure-pulse apparatus 400 includes a dome-shaped reflector 412 , defining an x-axis passing through its center, and a point of origin O at its center.
  • Reflector 412 is formed of a plurality of substantially concentric ring sections, for example, four substantially concentric ring sections 414 , 416 , 418 and 420 , having different curvatures.
  • each substantially concentric ring section is determined by a numerical calculation, so as to comply with the following two conditions:
  • each substantially concentric ring section is determined by a numerical calculation, so that pulses reflected from adjacent sections will all impinge generally on a same, predetermined zone, yet a desired time delay, hence a desired phase difference of about 0.5-1 microsecond, will occur between pulses reflected from adjacent sections.
  • FIG. 8 The configuration seen in FIG. 8 provides for a radically expanding primary pulse 30 , originating from substantially or generally point source 24 , to form a compound of subordinate pulses, as follows:
  • reflector 412 includes step changes between adjacent substantially concentric ring sections.
  • reflector 412 is constructed with smooth transitions between adjacent substantially concentric ring sections.
  • FIGS. 9A-9B schematically represent pressure-pulse therapy apparatus 500 , in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
  • Pressure-pulse apparatus 500 includes an electromagnetic source 510 , for example, of a type described in European patent EP 0 369 177 B1, incorporated herein by reference.
  • electromagnetic source 510 is cylindrical and includes:
  • Pressure-pulse apparatus 500 further includes dome-shaped reflector 512 , defining an x-axis passing through its center, and a point of origin O at its center.
  • Dome-shaped, reflector 512 has a vertex at point O and is formed of a plurality of substantially concentric ring sections, for example, three substantially concentric ring sections 516 , 518 and 520 , having different curvatures.
  • Each substantially concentric ring section is shaped to a curvature, which may be numerically calculated so as to comply with the conditions described hereinabove, in conjunction with FIG. 8 .
  • FIGS. 9A and 9B The configuration of FIGS. 9A and 9B provides for a primary pulse 530 , originating from cylindrical source 510 , to form a compound of subordinate pulses, as follows:
  • reflector 512 may be formed of fewer ring sections, or of more ring sections.
  • reflector 512 includes step changes between adjacent substantially concentric ring sections.
  • reflector 512 is constructed with smooth transitions between adjacent substantially concentric ring sections.
  • FIG. 10 schematically illustrates the application of therapeutic treatment by diaphragm 22 of apparatus 10 to a foot 44 , wherein diaphragm 22 presses against surface tissue of foot 44 , in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 11A-11D are pictorial representations of apparatus 10 applying therapeutic treatment to different bodily parts, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 11A illustrates a situation wherein apparatus 10 applies therapeutic treatment to foot 44 .
  • a Support fixture 40 such as a foot rest, is used to facilitate the positioning of foot 44 against apparatus 10 .
  • support fixture 40 is adjustable to support different parts of the body.
  • support fixture 40 is removable, so apparatus 10 can be pressed directly against a body when a patient is standing or lying prone. Alternatively, support fixture 40 can be folded in.
  • FIG. 11B illustrates a situation wherein apparatus 10 applies therapeutic treatment to an elbow 42 , supported by support fixture 40 , preferably adjusted for an elbow.
  • FIG. 11C illustrates a situation wherein apparatus 10 applies therapeutic treatment to a back of a shoulder 46 .
  • support fixture 40 has been removed or folded in, and apparatus 10 is pressed directly against back of shoulder 46 .
  • apparatus 10 is arranged for traveling along at least one and preferably a plurality of axes, on means of travel 50 , such as a gantry or a bellows.
  • apparatus 10 is also arranged for tilting in at least one and preferably a plurality of angular directions, also by means of travel 50 .
  • means of travel 50 provides for easy positioning of apparatus 10 against a body.
  • FIG. 11D illustrates a situation wherein apparatus 10 applies therapeutic treatment to a shoulder 48 , wherein apparatus 10 is pressed directly against shoulder 48 .
  • the therapeutic apparatus is used with no accompanying imagine means, since the treatment is regional in nature.
  • x-ray or sonic means are used.
  • another form of imaging means is used.
  • the dome-shaped reflector is formed of generally concentric sections.
  • ellipsoid ring sections 16 and 18 may be generally concentric with respect to parabolic center section 14 , so that distal focal points F 1 2 and F 2 2 may cluster around the x-axis, slightly off the x-axis.
  • ellipsoid ring sections 16 and 18 may be of the same curvature, or of different curvatures.
  • pressure-pulse source 24 is operable to generate primary pressure pulses in the range between 1000 and 6000 bars.
  • the therapeutic apparatus is operable to generate, from the primary pressure pulse, subordinate pressure pulses in the range between 5 and 600 bars.
  • power supply unit 28 is as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,529,572, to Spector, or in PCT publication WO 93/14720, to Spector, both incorporated herein by reference.
  • another suitable power supply unit may be used.
  • the reflector is formed of a material of good acoustic reflection properties, for example, stainless steel, brass or aluminum. Alternatively, another material may be used.
  • the reflector is supported by a mechanical means.
  • the reflector's diameter is between 5 and 40 centimeters, and preferably, between 10 and 25 centimeters.
  • the present invention may be used in lithotripsy as a non-invasive technique for pulverizing kidney stones and calculi in the bladder and urethra. Additionally, it may be used for dissolving lipids in cells close to the skin and in the pelvic region. Furthermore, it may be used in orthopedic medicine, for example, as a therapeutic means for any of the following:

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Radiation-Therapy Devices (AREA)
  • Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)
  • Surgical Instruments (AREA)
US10/617,037 1999-02-07 2003-07-11 Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus Expired - Lifetime US7311678B2 (en)

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IL128404 1999-02-07
IL12840499A IL128404A0 (en) 1999-02-07 1999-02-07 Device for transmission of shock waves on to large surfaces of human tissue
PCT/IL2000/000069 WO2000045893A1 (fr) 1999-02-07 2000-02-03 Appareil de therapie a impulsions de pression, destine au traitement de tissus
IL14142801A IL141428A0 (en) 2001-02-14 2001-02-14 Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus
IL141428 2001-02-14
US09/814,359 US6755796B2 (en) 1999-02-07 2001-03-22 Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus
US10/617,037 US7311678B2 (en) 1999-02-07 2003-07-11 Pressure-pulse therapy apparatus

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US10500128B2 (en) 2018-03-22 2019-12-10 Acoustic Wave Cell Therapy, Inc. Low energy acoustic pulse apparatus and method
US10835767B2 (en) 2013-03-08 2020-11-17 Board Of Regents, The University Of Texas System Rapid pulse electrohydraulic (EH) shockwave generator apparatus and methods for medical and cosmetic treatments
US11229575B2 (en) 2015-05-12 2022-01-25 Soliton, Inc. Methods of treating cellulite and subcutaneous adipose tissue
US11484724B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2022-11-01 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Methods and devices for tissue treatment using mechanical stimulation and electromagnetic field
US11794040B2 (en) 2010-01-19 2023-10-24 The Board Of Regents Of The University Of Texas System Apparatuses and systems for generating high-frequency shockwaves, and methods of use
US11813477B2 (en) 2017-02-19 2023-11-14 Soliton, Inc. Selective laser induced optical breakdown in biological medium
US11857212B2 (en) 2016-07-21 2024-01-02 Soliton, Inc. Rapid pulse electrohydraulic (EH) shockwave generator apparatus with improved electrode lifetime
US11865371B2 (en) 2011-07-15 2024-01-09 The Board of Regents of the University of Texas Syster Apparatus for generating therapeutic shockwaves and applications of same
US12097162B2 (en) 2019-04-03 2024-09-24 Soliton, Inc. Systems, devices, and methods of treating tissue and cellulite by non-invasive acoustic subcision

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US20160016015A1 (en) * 2004-09-24 2016-01-21 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Systems and methods for improving an outside appearance of skin using ultrasound as an energy source
US8607167B2 (en) * 2007-01-07 2013-12-10 Apple Inc. Portable multifunction device, method, and graphical user interface for providing maps and directions
US9147046B2 (en) * 2010-04-28 2015-09-29 Empi, Inc. Systems and methods for modulating pressure wave therapy
TWI686439B (zh) 2014-07-04 2020-03-01 瑞士商亞克羅瑪智財公司 不含氟之拒水性組成物
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US12004760B2 (en) 2009-07-08 2024-06-11 Sanuwave, Inc. Catheter with shock wave electrodes aligned on longitudinal axis
US20140088465A1 (en) * 2009-07-08 2014-03-27 Sanuwave, Inc. Extracorporeal Pressure Shock Wave Devices with Reversed Applicators and Methods for Using these Devices
US20160000645A1 (en) * 2009-07-08 2016-01-07 Sanuwave, Inc. Shock Wave Applicator with Movable Electrode
US9522011B2 (en) * 2009-07-08 2016-12-20 Sanuwave, Inc. Shock wave applicator with movable electrode
US10058340B2 (en) 2009-07-08 2018-08-28 Sanuwave, Inc. Extracorporeal pressure shock wave devices with multiple reflectors and methods for using these devices
US10238405B2 (en) 2009-07-08 2019-03-26 Sanuwave, Inc. Blood vessel treatment with intracorporeal pressure shock waves
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US11865371B2 (en) 2011-07-15 2024-01-09 The Board of Regents of the University of Texas Syster Apparatus for generating therapeutic shockwaves and applications of same
US10857393B2 (en) 2013-03-08 2020-12-08 Soliton, Inc. Rapid pulse electrohydraulic (EH) shockwave generator apparatus and methods for medical and cosmetic treatments
US10835767B2 (en) 2013-03-08 2020-11-17 Board Of Regents, The University Of Texas System Rapid pulse electrohydraulic (EH) shockwave generator apparatus and methods for medical and cosmetic treatments
US11229575B2 (en) 2015-05-12 2022-01-25 Soliton, Inc. Methods of treating cellulite and subcutaneous adipose tissue
US11484724B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2022-11-01 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Methods and devices for tissue treatment using mechanical stimulation and electromagnetic field
US11857212B2 (en) 2016-07-21 2024-01-02 Soliton, Inc. Rapid pulse electrohydraulic (EH) shockwave generator apparatus with improved electrode lifetime
US11813477B2 (en) 2017-02-19 2023-11-14 Soliton, Inc. Selective laser induced optical breakdown in biological medium
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US12016817B2 (en) 2018-03-22 2024-06-25 Acoustic Wave Cell Therapy, Inc. Low energy acoustic pulse apparatus and method
US12097162B2 (en) 2019-04-03 2024-09-24 Soliton, Inc. Systems, devices, and methods of treating tissue and cellulite by non-invasive acoustic subcision

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IL128404A0 (en) 2000-01-31
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AU2317600A (en) 2000-08-25
US20040010211A1 (en) 2004-01-15

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